Sujokalo are here to join you with introspection and a playlist to accompany you as the sun hovers above the horizon.
Introducing Sujokalo, the dynamic duo from Sydney who proudly declare their sound as “like playing rave records on the wrong speed.” So, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to party while your turntable takes a wrong turn, these guys have got you covered.
They have put together the 10 essential tracks to listen to when watching the sunrise, something we know is hard to commit to in these long winters.
Their music is a kaleidoscope of sonic wonders, blending atmospheric synths, fuzzy guitars, rave stabs, and intricate melodies into a swirling vortex of sound. It’s like getting lost in a neon-lit dreamland while wearing mismatched socks—unexpected, but undeniably cool.
Their debut album, Bothwell, is a meticulously crafted masterpiece that has been generating serious buzz. Radio stations around the world have fallen under the spell of Sujokalo, and even Apple Music couldn’t resist featuring many of their tracks on their curated playlists. It’s safe to say these guys are making waves.
Bothwell, released on limited edition heavyweight white vinyl (fancy!), takes you on a wild ride through genres. From dream-pop to shoe-gaze, ambient to breakbeat, they cover it all. It’s like hopping on a musical rollercoaster with no idea which turn is coming next, but you’re loving every minute of it.
To top it all off, Sujokalo knows how to pick the right people for the job. Their album was mastered by the Grammy-nominated engineer Joe Carra, who has worked with an impressive roster of artists. So you know these guys are serious about their craft.
If you’re itching to experience the Sujokalo magic live, you’re in luck! They’ve got some shows planned for later this year. So, keep an eye out for when they hit the stage, bringing their eclectic sound and infectious energy to a venue near you.
“The album cover is actually a photo we took up in the Himalayas as the sun was rising over Annapurna [and] Annapurna is actually the name of track 6 from the album too”
So with that in mind, whether you are late to bed, or early to rise, here are 10 tracks to watch a sunrise to:
Aeoliah – Tien Fu: Heaven’s Gate
We first heard this at Pikes in Ibiza. It has that meditative mantra feel about it, reminiscent of traveling in the Himalayas and watching the sunrise over the mountains which definitely contributed to not only our track Annapurna but also the cover art to Bothwell.
Sade – I Never Thought I’d See The Day
Quite simply one of the greatest voices of our time. A voice that could soothe you to sleep or move you to your feet. There’s also a great Late Nite Tuff Guy version of this track that is worth checking out.
Bark Psychosis – Absent Friend
This track stopped us in our tracks when we first heard it. The moment that twinkling guitar starts just draws you in and continues to take you on a journey. The delicate layers throughout are simply sublime.
Tears For Fears – Pharaohs
We’re all familiar with their big hits, but it’s this B-side to Everybody Rules the World that we keep returning to. Some listeners may even notice the musical similarites to the A-side too.
Warriors of the Dystotheque – On The Balcony At Sunrise
The name of this track says it all. This shimmering and blissful sun-drenched release from last year was a constant on our summer beach playlists and will no doubt be for years to come.
Chicane – No Ordinary Morning
That beat, those pads, and a Tracy Ackerman vocal to die for. Just a stunning track that’s had countless spins at afterparties throughout the years.
Low Motion Disco – Things Are Gonna Get Easier
We’re big fans of LMD and many of the tracks from Swiss duo’s Keep It Slow album could’ve made this list. But it’s the downtempo rework of the Valerie Carter’ version of “Ooh Child” that gets the nod.
Space Face feat. Mikaela Davis – Sun Kids
This song sounds like pure sunshine. Perfectly psychedelic with dreamy layered vocals to transport you into a kaleidoscopic haze.
Orbital – Belfast
We’ve always been big fans of Orbital and this list couldn’t be complete without this track. It’s also one of our manager Peter’s favourites. The Emily Van Evera vocal sample is relatively untouched and sounds like it was made for the track. Hard to believe it’s over 30 years old.
Palace – Heaven Up There
This is one of the most beautiful songs we’ve heard in recent times and it actually sounds like the sun coming up. Just a perfect track.
Check out the gang on Bandcamp!
